国际英语新闻：Obama meets Israeli defense minister amid tensions over Jewish settlement activities

The Obama administration has been exerting efforts to pressure on the Israeli government and the PNA to resume the talks, so that the two sides could reach a permanent peace agreement that leads to the establishment of an independent Palestinian state within two years.

The talks were stalled in December 2008 when Israel launched a massive military campaign against the Islamic Hamas movement in the Gaza Strip.

PNA Chairman Mahmoud Abbas insists that the talks shall not resume until the Israeli government totally freezes the Jewish settlement construction in the West Bank, while the Israeli side vows to ensure the "natural growth" of the Jewish settlements.

At least 450,000 Israelis live in more than 100 settlements in the West Bank, including East Jerusalem.

After Israel's announcement to build 1,600 homes in East Jerusalem early in March, the PNA decided to suspend the proximity talks with Israel, which was brokered by U.S. envoy Mitchell following months-long tireless shuttle mediations between Israel and the Palestinians.